Among Thimphu’s many tourist attraction is the BBS Tower, also known by the name Sangaygang. Bhutan Broadcasting Service (BBS)runs the radio and television network of the country and has a telecommunication tower built on the hilltop. It is located at 2685m and offers the view of entire Thimphu valley. The place is best enjoyed during the evening when the sun is setting and the whole city is lighting up.
To residents, it is more than just a view point. Surrounded by blue pines and colorful prayer flags, it attracts fitness lovers specially before and after office hours, trying to get an hourly walk or a jog. And once dark, it becomes a lover’s lane. Famous among young couples, many walk or drive uphill with their date.
Sangaygang also draws people during holidays or weekends. Families and friends gather for a lovely dry picnic and some photograph session. It is also popular among cyclist with many practicing uphill. A lot of biking tours racethrough the route.
The Tower is half an hour drive from the main town with good motor road access.Visitors can avail either bus or taxi to go the tower. You can drive up to the top or park at the base and walk uphill.
Hikers can take anhour long mild hike to WangditseGoembafrom the Radio Tower. Founded in 1750 by the attendants of Bhutan’s 8th Desi, YesheyRabgye, the Goemba houses the statues of the guardian deities YesheyGonpo (Mahakala), PaldenLhamo (Mahakali) and Tsheringma (the Goddess of Longevity). The trail along the way offers amazing view ofTrashiChhoeDzong, Thimphu valley and the mountains of the north.
On the way back, stop at the Takin (National Animal) preserve. Originally a mini-zoo, it was converted into a preserve when it was discovered that the animals refrained from inhabiting the surrounding forest even when set free.
Sangaygang remains open 24x7 for anyone to visit although the entrance to the Radio Tower is a restricted zone.
